Accra, Ghana – May 15, 2026 – The JoyNews Impact Makers Awards has officially transitioned from a novel initiative to a significant national movement, celebrating Ghanaians who are making transformative impacts in their communities. This evolution was highlighted by Francis Fiifi Koomson, General Manager of Joy Brands at The Multimedia Group Limited, during the 2026 awards ceremony held at the Labadi Beach Hotel.
From Vision to National Movement
Established four years ago with the aim of spotlighting “ordinary Ghanaians doing extraordinary things,” the JoyNews Impact Makers Awards has successfully cultivated a respected platform. Mr. Koomson, who also directs the Impact Makers Foundation, stated that the initiative has grown to inspire hope, compassion, and action across Ghana.
This year’s ceremony marked a significant milestone, with the awards expanding to honor 12 changemakers. The introduction of two new categories, the Corporate Impact Award and the Disability and Inclusion Impact Award, reflects a broader commitment to recognizing impact in all its forms.
Rigorous Selection and Growing Impact
The awards process saw over 300 entries submitted from various regions of Ghana. An independent panel of judges meticulously reviewed these submissions to select the deserving recipients. This rigorous selection ensures that the recognized individuals and organizations have demonstrated genuine and substantial contributions.
A particularly rewarding aspect of the awards, according to Mr. Koomson, is the amplified success of previous honorees. National recognition has often led to expanded reach and increased support for their projects.
Success Stories Fueling Further Growth
Illustrative examples underscore the tangible benefits of the awards. Osei Boateng, founder of the OKB Hope Foundation and a 2025 awardee in the health category, saw his healthcare outreach programs expand significantly. Following the awards, his initiatives reached over 10,000 people across 65 rural communities.
Similarly, Portia Dumba, recognized last year for her work in girl-child development and education, leveraged the increased visibility to forge stronger partnerships. These collaborations resulted in the rebuilding of a three-unit classroom block in Domangri, along with the provision of essential resources like desks, whiteboards, and solar power for schools and homes in the Savannah Region.
Other past beneficiaries, including Joseph Afangbe of Young Visionary Leaders Ghana and Bennett Asante Nkrumah of Generation Hope International School, have also experienced enhanced visibility and secured valuable partnerships through the platform.
New Digital Platform and Foundation Launch
Further solidifying its commitment, the JoyNews Impact Makers Awards has launched its official website. This online platform serves to showcase the achievements of winners and nominees, as well as highlight various community development initiatives taking place across Ghana.
The launch of the JoyNews Impact Makers Foundation was also announced, aiming to mobilize national support for grassroots development projects. The public is encouraged to engage with the website and contribute to these vital initiatives.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum
Mr. Koomson concluded by celebrating the current awardees, emphasizing their role as proof that individual action can indeed transform communities. The continued success and expansion of the JoyNews Impact Makers Awards signal a growing recognition of grassroots efforts and a sustained commitment to fostering positive change throughout Ghana.
The ongoing success stories and the establishment of the Impact Makers Foundation suggest that this movement is poised to continue identifying and amplifying the work of Ghana’s changemakers. Future editions are expected to build upon this momentum, potentially introducing more categories and reaching even wider audiences to foster greater collaboration and support for community development.
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